The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed three university staff unions to immediately suspend their ongoing strike, deeming it unlawful under Ghana’s Labour Act.
The unions involved are the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG).
The strike began after the unions accused the government of failing to implement conditions of service agreed upon in a November 12, 2024, agreement. The unions served a notice of intention to strike on May 12, 2025, citing the government’s alleged non-compliance.
Despite the NLC’s intervention, the unions proceeded with their planned industrial action, issuing a press release on May 21 to declare an indefinite strike.
The NLC invoked Section 139(1)(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), instructing the unions to return to work without delay. The Commission also cited a press release issued by the unions on May 21, announcing the indefinite strike.
The NLC has withdrawn its involvement in the matter, invoking Section 161 of the Labour Act, which bars it from resolving disputes when a strike is deemed illegal.
Despite the NLC’s directive, the unions chose to proceed with the strike, prompting the Commission to advise them to cease the industrial action and notify the Commission in writing before any further proceedings can be considered. SSA-UoG was notably absent during a hearing on May 21, while TUAAG and FUSSAG attended the session.
This development highlights the ongoing tensions between the university staff unions and the government regarding working conditions and agreements.
The NLC’s stance underscores the importance of adhering to the Labour Act and resolving disputes through proper channels. The situation remains fluid, with the unions expected to respond to the NLC’s directive and potentially negotiate further with the government.